Nebbiolo is one of the most important and renowned grape varieties in Piemonte. Universally regarded as a noble, elegant grape with deep historical roots, Nebbiolo showcases an extraordinary ability to adapt and shine in various expressions.
There are several theories about the grape’s name, but they all agree it derives from “nebbia” (fog). Some believe “Nebbiolo” refers to the grape’s appearance, as its berries seem “foggy” due to the abundant bloom—a natural protective coating. Others suggest the name references the grape’s late ripening, with the harvest coinciding with the first autumn mists.
Characteristics of the Nebbiolo Grape
Nebbiolo is a prized, black-skinned, indigenous grape of Piemonte.
The Nebbiolo vine typically lives between 50 and 55 years. It produces medium-large clusters with small, thick-skinned berries ranging from deep blue to nearly black, covered in a generous bloom layer.
Nebbiolo has a long ripening period, with harvest usually in mid-October. The resulting wines are ruby to garnet in colour, with intense aromas of red fruits and floral and balsamic notes. Nebbiolo offers vibrant freshness and pronounced tannins on the palate, qualities that contribute to its exceptional ageing potential.
Nebbiolo’s Growing Regions
Nebbiolo is a delicate grape, challenging to cultivate. It thrives in areas with mild temperatures, elevations between 250 and 450 meters above sea level, and southeast to southwest exposure. It’s no surprise that, with few exceptions, Nebbiolo flourishes almost exclusively in Piemonte – on the hills of Langhe, Monferrato, and Roero, as well as in Canavese, Val d’Ossola, and parts of Vercelli and Novara – and in Lombardia’s Valtellina, where it’s known as Chiavennasca.
Nebbiolo is intrinsically tied to its terroir. Each area’s microclimates, exposure, and soil composition significantly influence the wine’s structure, aromas, and flavours, reflecting distinct expressions in their names.
Nebbiolo thrives in the calcareous marl soils of the Langhe and Monferrato hills. It’s here that some of the most prestigious denominations are born: Barolo, Barbaresco, and Langhe DOC Nebbiolo in Langhe, and Monferrato DOC Nebbiolo in Monferrato.
Bava’s Nebbiolos: From Langhe to Monferrato
At Bava’s cellars in Cocconato (Monferrato) and Castiglione Falletto (Langhe), three distinct expressions of Nebbiolo come to life:
- Monferrato DOC Nebbiolo Superiore Serre di San Pietro, from Cocconato
- Langhe DOC Nebbiolo, from Castiglione Falletto
- Barolo DOCG Scarrone, from Castiglione Falletto.
Monferrato DOC Nebbiolo Superiore Serre di San Pietro
The Cocconato area in Monferrato Astigiano has a rich tradition of Nebbiolo production. This historical significance inspired the replanting of Nebbiolo vines in the 1990s, a decision that was rewarded with the Monferrato DOC Nebbiolo designation.
This wine comes from one of the Bava family’s most historic vineyards, on the Cadodo hill in Cocconato, easily visible from the winery. It’s a small production vineyard planted at 375 meters above sea level and characterized by calcareous marl soils.
The Nebbiolo ferments in stainless steel tanks before maturing for 10 months in 15hl French oak barrels, finishing its ageing in the bottle.
It reveals a brilliant ruby-red colour with an intense, rich bouquet. Floral notes of violet and wild rose blend with cherry aromas, hallmark traits of Nebbiolo, followed by sweet, elegant spices from barrel ageing.
The wine’s structure and depth on the palate are perfectly balanced by remarkable freshness, enhancing its lingering finish.
Discover Monferrato DOC Nebbiolo Superiore Serre di San Pietro
Langhe DOC Nebbiolo
Cascina Scarrone is nestled in the heart of Langhe, among the vineyards of the Scarrone MGA (Menzione Geografica Aggiuntiva) in Castiglione Falletto, acquired by the Bava family in the early 1980s. This five-hectare vineyard surrounds the farmhouse and cellar, and from its grapes, both Langhe DOC Nebbiolo and Barolo Scarrone are produced.
Langhe DOC Nebbiolo is crafted from the younger vines. Fermentation takes place in 53hl oak vats, followed by aging in stainless steel tanks, and finally in the bottle.
In the glass, it shines with a brilliant ruby hue, offering intense fruit and floral aromas that convey immediate freshness and elegance. This elegance extends to the palate, with a full, savoury taste and well-integrated tannins that provide the perfect balance.
Barolo DOCG Scarrone
The winery is located among the Scarrone cru vineyards in Castiglione Falletto, behind the Castle, with southeast-facing vineyards 300 meters above sea level. This exposure ensures perfect ripening, even in the sunniest years, receiving morning sunlight and afternoon shade.
Fermentation occurs in 53hl French oak vats with extended maceration.
After several rackings to achieve the desired clarity, the wine matures in 53hl vats for 30 months, completing its ageing in the bottle.
This Barolo reveals an excellent personality in the glass. It has a garnet colour and intense aromas of rose, violet, cherry, tobacco, and forest floor. The palate is structured with elegant tannins and bright acidity that balance the wine’s depth. The finish is long and persistent.
Discover the True Essence of Nebbiolo at Bava’s Wine Shop in Cocconato
Come and explore Nebbiolo’s diverse expressions. Visit our Wine Shop in Cocconato for a tasting experience that will make you fall in love with this extraordinary grape.
You’ll have the chance to savor the three facets of Bava’s Nebbiolo – Monferrato DOC Nebbiolo Superiore Serre di San Pietro, Langhe DOC Nebbiolo, and our Barolo DOCG Scarrone – and discover their differences, common traits, and unique characteristics.